France says it is expelling 12 Algerian diplomatic officials, a day after Algeria announced the expulsion of the same number of French officials in escalating tensions between the two countries.

The move followed expulsions of French officials by Algeria after an Algerian official was accused of kidnapping an influencer who had been granted political asylum in France.

France expelled 12 Algerian diplomats and recalled its ambassador over the kidnapping of activist Amir Boukhors. Alleged consular involvement has reignited diplomatic tensions, further straining France – Algeria relations already weakened by past disputes.